Bénin: Minister Awaou Baco engages with SMEs in Alibori and Borgou
Minister of Small and Medium Enterprises and Employment Promotion, Awaou Baco, concluded a two-day working trip to Bénin’s northern departments on July 28 and 29, 2026. The visit included stops in Alibori and Borgou to assess support programs for young entrepreneurs, artisans, livestock breeders, and people with disabilities through the AZOLI initiative.
Local entrepreneurs share challenges and opportunities
The minister’s first destination was Alibori, where she met with local leaders, including Prefect Ahmed Bello Ky-Sama, before heading to Malanville. In Malanville, discussions centered on the needs of SMEs, auto repair workshops, and rabbit breeders. The itinerary then took her to Nikki, where she visited the vocational training center for artisans, engaging with trainees and instructors about skill development and job placement prospects.
At Kandi’s town hall, a roundtable with youth focused on public initiatives for training, employment, and entrepreneurship. The session highlighted existing gaps and the need for tailored solutions to support local economies in these remote regions.
The AZOLI program: Empowering youth and people with disabilities
The second day shifted to Borgou, beginning with a courtesy visit to Prefect Abdoul Chakour Assouma Naro. At Hôtel Amaldi Prestige in Parakou, the minister met 50 young beneficiaries of the AZOLI program, who were completing their apprenticeships. Conversations centered on training progress and post-program insertion opportunities.
A key highlight was the AZOLI’s inclusion component, which supports 46 people with disabilities trained in shoemaking and leatherwork. The initiative aims to equip them with marketable skills and foster economic independence.
SMEs and digital platforms: Bridging gaps in support
The tour also included a visit to ASAFMA, a metalworking SME specializing in welding, machining, and agro-industrial equipment manufacturing. The company receives support from the Agency for the Development of SMEs, the Entrepreneurship Support Project in Bénin, and the Chamber of Crafts and Trades.
The final stop was Delika’s Tissage, an artisanal business specializing in traditional fabric weaving and custom textile products. The owner showcased locally inspired designs, emphasizing the preservation of Bénin’s textile heritage.
At every stop, Minister Baco encouraged entrepreneurs to leverage digital platforms like SICA (available at www.sica.anpe.bj) and e-PME. These tools provide access to funding, business formalization, and professional insertion guidance. She urged perseverance among project leaders, reaffirming the government’s commitment to sustained reforms and investments in youth and women’s entrepreneurship.
